Culture of early mobility in mechanically ventilated patients:

Early Rehabilitation Interventions by Physical Therapists for Severe COVID-19 Patients Were Associated With Decreased Incidence of Post-ICU Physical Impairment

OBJECTIVE

To implement early rehabilitation interventions by physical therapists is recommended. However, the effectiveness of early rehabilitation for severe coronavirus disease 2019 (COVID-19) patients in the prevention of post-intensive care syndrome (PICS) is unclear. We analyzed a multicenter prospective observational study (Post-Intensive Care outcomeS in patients with COronaVIrus Disease 2019) to examine the association between early rehabilitation interventions and PICS physical impairment.

METHODS

An analysis was performed on COVID-19 patients who were admitted to intensive care units (ICUs) between March 2020 and March 2021, and required mechanical ventilation. The primary outcome was the incidence of PICS physical impairment (Barthel Index≤90) after one year. Multivariate logistic regression analysis was used to estimate the association between early rehabilitation interventions and PICS physical impairment by adjusting ICU mobility scale (IMS) during seven-day following ICU admission, and clinically relevant risk factors.

RESULTS

The analysis included 259 patients, 54 of whom developed PICS physical impairment one year later. In 81 patients, physical therapists intervened within seven days of ICU admission. There was no significant difference in mean IMS by day seven of admission between the early and non-early rehabilitation patients (0.70 and 0.61, respectively). Multivariate logistic regression analysis showed that early rehabilitation interventions were significantly associated with a low incidence of PICS physical impairment (odds ratio, 0.294; 95% confidence interval, 0.123-0.706; p=0.006).

CONCLUSION

Early rehabilitation interventions by physical therapists were an independent factor associated with the decreased development of PICS physical impairment at one year, even though early rehabilitation had no significant effect on IMS.

Intensive care unit acquired weakness and physical rehabilitation in the ICU

Approximately half of critically ill adults experience intensive care unit acquired weakness (ICUAW). Patients who develop ICUAW may have negative outcomes, including longer duration of mechanical ventilation, greater length of stay, and worse mobility, physical functioning, quality of life, and mortality. Early physical rehabilitation interventions have potential for improving ICUAW; however, randomized trials show inconsistent findings on the efficacy of these interventions. This review summarizes the latest evidence on the definition, diagnosis, epidemiology, pathophysiology, risks factors, implications, and management of ICUAW. It specifically highlights research gaps and challenges, with considerations for future research for physical rehabilitation interventions.

Towards a common definition of hospital-acquired deconditioning in adults: a scoping review

BACKGROUND

Hospital-acquired deconditioning is a term used in clinical practice, describing a loss of physical and/or cognitive function associated with hospitalisation. Previous reviews have addressed interventions, its prevalence in older adults and potential assessment tools. However, each review has reported a core limitation, the need for an agreed-upon definition and diagnostic criteria for hospital-acquired deconditioning.

OBJECTIVE

We aimed to identify key components used to define hospital-acquired deconditioning in adults. We sought to do this by identifying diagnostic criteria, describing how authors operationalised Hospital- Acquired Deconditioning (HAD), and describing differences between HAD and other immobility-linked syndromes. This article focuses on how hospital-acquired deconditioning is understood and operationalised.

DESIGN

A scoping review using the Joanna Briggs Institute methodology for evidence synthesis.

ELIGIBILITY CRITERIA

Published in English after 1 January 1990, investigating adults over 18, set in inpatient rehabilitation or acute care settings, and including either a definition or description of hospital-acquired deconditioning or an outline of strategies to assess, prevent or manage hospital-acquired deconditioning.

SOURCES OF EVIDENCE

Published and grey literature, no restriction was placed on study design.

CHARTING METHODS

Relevant data, where available, was extracted from each source using a proprietary data extraction template.

RESULTS

One hundred and three articles were included from 2403 retrieved results. Thirty-three were from rehabilitation or post-acute care settings, 53 from acute care, 15 from intensive care and two from other settings. The literature was diverse in methodology and research question addressed. Hospital-acquired deconditioning was poorly defined, no consistent patterns were identified in aetiology and sequelae; diagnostic criteria were not fully agreed on.

CONCLUSIONS

The literature on hospital-acquired deconditioning is large, diverse and incomplete. Further work is required to develop a shared definition of hospital-acquired deconditioning, enabling researchers to coalesce for better understanding of the phenomenon, and clinicians, in turn, to better treat and mitigate against it.

REVIEW REGISTRATION

OSF: https://osf.io/b5sgw/.

Ventilator-tube holder for mobilising patients with a tracheostomy: A pilot usability study (TrachVest)

INTRODUCTION

Patients in intensive care may have a tracheostomy and be dependent on a respiratory ventilator while yet conscious and able to mobilise. Early rehabilitation is known to be key to patient recovery. However, for these patients, therapy staff members are required to manage the ventilator tubing in addition to other patient-connected equipment whilst focussing on patient mobility and progress. A technical garment (TrachVest) was designed to hold the ventilator tubing securely during these therapeutic mobilisations.

METHODS

We conducted a mixed-methods study to evaluate the use of this garment in an intensive care unit setting. The aim was to determine potential effects on patient safety, its potential benefits, and usability. Research methods included direct observations, user questionnaires (quantitative and qualitative), and staff focus groups.

RESULTS

A total of 14 therapy sessions with the garment were observed, involving nine patients and 10 staff. Eleven staff members participated in two focus groups, including two previously involved in the therapy sessions. Therapy sessions consisted of a range of activities including sitting on the edge of the bed, transferring from bed to chair (including use of hoists), and mobilising with walking aids. Overall, staff members felt that the garment was easy to use and would likely improve patient safety during mobilisations. The main benefits were staff reassurance, allowing them to focus on therapy, and in potentially reducing the number of staff members needed for particular activities. Patient characteristics were found to be influential on the perceived utility, and TrachVest may have greater benefit for patients who have greater physical function (e.g., able to actively participate in rehabilitation) and can mobilise at least from bed to chair. Experience of using the TrachVest and of patient capabilities was thought to be key to knowing when it would be most useful.

CONCLUSION

Within this pilot usability study, participants, both staff and patients, reported that the TrachVest garment designed to support ventilator tubing during rehabilitation to be highly useable and beneficial to supporting rehabilitation in this patient group.

The Effect of Early Mobilization on Respiratory Parameters of Mechanically Ventilated Patients With Respiratory Failure

The effect of early mobilization on hemodynamic parameters of patients under mechanical ventilation has been associated with positive results and yet its effect on specific respiratory parameters is less well appreciated. This article reports the results of a study of a randomized clinical trial of intensive care unit patients receiving mechanical ventilation. The findings of this study confirmed that a 4-step protocol for early mobilization can improve Pao2, O2 saturation, Pao2/Fio2 (fraction of inspired oxygen) ratio, and pulmonary compliance. The value of interdisciplinary collaboration supporting early mobilization was confirmed.

Early Mobility for Critically Ill Patients: Building Staff Commitment Through Appreciative Inquiry

BACKGROUND

Immobility contributes to many adverse effects in critically ill patients. Early progressive mobility can mitigate these negative sequelae but is not widely implemented. Appreciative inquiry is a quality improvement method/change philosophy that builds on what works well in an organization.

OBJECTIVES

To explore whether appreciative inquiry would reinvigorate an early progressive mobility initiative in a medical intensive care unit and improve and sustain staff commitment to providing regular mobility therapy at the bedside. Secondary goals were to add to the literature about appreciative inquiry in health care and to determine whether it can be adapted to critical care.

METHODS

Staff participated in appreciative inquiry workshops, which were conducted by a trained facilitator and structured with the appreciative inquiry 4-D cycle. Staff members' attitudes toward and knowledge of early progressive mobility were evaluated before and after the workshops. Performance of early progressive mobility activities was recorded before and 3 and 10 months after the workshops.

RESULTS

Sixty-seven participants completed the program. They rated the workshops as successfully helping them to understand the importance of early progressive mobility (98%), explain their responsibility to improve patient outcomes (98%), and engender a greater commitment to patients and the organization (96%). Regarding mobility treatments, at 3 months orders had improved from 62% to 88%; documentation, from 52% to 89%; and observation, from 39% to 87%. These improvements were maintained at 10 months.

CONCLUSION

Participation in the workshops improved the staff's attitude toward and performance of mobility treatments. Appreciative inquiry may provide an adjunct to problem-based quality improvement techniques.

Ambulatory Status Is Associated With Successful Discharge Home in Survivors of Critical Illness

BACKGROUND

Survivors of prolonged ICU admissions are bedridden and immobilized for an extended period of time. These patients often are discharged to long-term acute care hospitals (LTACHs) for continued medical care and rehabilitation. Early ambulation has been associated with improved functional outcomes and lower readmission rates in hospitalized patients. The aim of this study was to determine the association between ambulatory status and discharge disposition in survivors of prolonged ICU stays who were admitted to an LTACH.

METHODS

We performed a retrospective cohort study of 285 survivors of prolonged ICU stays who were admitted to a university-affiliated LTACH facility from 2010 to 2013. Outcomes of interest included comparing the relationship between ambulatory status and disposition status (ie, home vs acute rehabilitation facility, nursing home, readmission to an ICU, or death).

RESULTS

The mean age of our cohort was 59.0 ± 15.3 y, with 129 (45%) males, 148 (52%) African-American, 123 (43%) white, and 14 (5%) of subjects other races. Most of these subjects were transferred from a medical ICU (68%). The median ICU and LTACH lengths of stay were 25.5 (13-38.8) d and 34.0 (14-64) d, respectively. Thirty-eight (13.3%) subjects were discharged home, 25 (8.7%) to an acute rehabilitation facility, 70 (24.6%) to a nursing home, 139 (48.8%) were readmitted to an ICU, and 13 (4.6%) died. Of 285 total subjects, 74 (26%) ambulated during physical therapy, while 211 (74%) subjects never ambulated. Of those who ambulated, 24 (32.4%) went home, whereas 14 of 211 (6.6%) subjects who did not ambulate went home (P < .001).

CONCLUSIONS

The ability to ambulate was associated with a greater likelihood of being discharged home in survivors of prolonged ICU stays who were admitted to an LTACH. These results suggest that mobility training for survivors of prolonged ICU stays in LTACH facilities should be strongly emphasized to improve their likelihood of being discharged home.

Safety, Feasibility, and Efficacy of Early Rehabilitation in Patients Requiring Continuous Renal Replacement: A Quality Improvement Study

INTRODUCTION

Early rehabilitation in critically ill patients is associated with improved outcomes. Recent research demonstrates that patients requiring continuous renal replacement therapy (CRRT) can safely engage in mobility. The purpose of this study was to assess safety and feasibility of early rehabilitation with focus on mobility in patients requiring CRRT.

METHODS

Study design was a mixed methods analysis of a quality improvement protocol. The setting was an intensive care unit (ICU) at a tertiary medical center. Safety was prospectively recorded by incidence of major adverse events including dislodgement of CRRT catheter, accidental extubation, bleeding, and hemodynamic emergency; and minor adverse events such as transient oxygen desaturation >10% of resting. Limited efficacy testing was performed to determine if rehabilitation parameters were associated with clinical outcomes.

RESULTS

A total of 67 patients (54.0 ± 15.6 years old, 44% women, body mass index 29.2 ± 9.3 kg/m²) received early rehabilitation under this protocol. The median days of CRRT were 6.0 (interquartile range [IQR], 2-11) and 72% of patients were on mechanical ventilation concomitantly with CRRT at the time of rehabilitation. A total of 112 rehabilitation sessions were performed of 152 attempts (74% completion rate). No major adverse events occurred. Patients achieving higher levels of mobility were more likely to be alive at discharge (P = 0.076).

CONCLUSIONS

The provision of early rehabilitation in critically ill patients requiring CRRT is safe and feasible. Further, these preliminary results suggest that early rehabilitation with focus on mobility may improve patient outcomes in this susceptible population.

Mesures de prévention non pharmacologiques du delirium de réanimation

Le delirium est défini par un changement brutal ou rapidement progressif de l’état mental ou une modification de l’humeur associés à une baisse des capacités de concentration, à une désorganisation de la pensée, à une confusion et à une altération du niveau de conscience. L’incidence du delirium en réanimation est variable d’environ 4 à 83 %, selon les études. Cela est probablement lié à la variété des outils de mesure employés, au niveau d’entraînement des professionnels de santé établissant ces scores, à la profondeur de la sédation et aux différences de populations étudiées. Son étiologie semble être multifactorielle. Il a été montré que la survenue du delirium a un fort impact sur le pronostic vital et fonctionnel des patients en réanimation, car son incidence est associée à une augmentation de la mortalité hospitalière précoce et tardive, et le déclin cognitif qui lui est associé peut persister à distance du séjour en réanimation. Il est important de souligner que la prise en charge dans les soins critiques est très hétérogène. Néanmoins, de nouvelles données de la littérature apportent des éléments concrets sur la prise charge de ce syndrome et fournissent un guide utile à la pratique paramédicale dans la prévention et le dépistage de ce trouble cognitif. L’objectif de ce travail est d’apporter une synthèse autour de la littérature disponible dans ce domaine, mettant en lumière le rôle clé de la profession paramédicale dans ce contexte afin d’identifier des éléments diagnostiques et thérapeutiques susceptibles de modifier pertinemment les pratiques soignantes.

Identifying barriers to early mobilisation among mechanically ventilated patients in a trauma intensive care unit

Mechanically ventilated patients can be at risk for functional decline (Cameron et al., 2015). Early mobilisation of mechanically ventilated patients can improve outcomes after critical illness to prevent this decline. Although registered nurses understand the importance of early mobilisation there are nurses who are unwilling to mobilise patients.

AIM

The aim of this study is to examine whether nurses' attitudes and beliefs are barriers for early mobilisation and evaluate whether an education intervention can improve early mobilisation.

METHOD

Pre-test, post-test intervention with registered nurses and charge nurses in a 22 bed trauma intensive care setting.

PROCEDURE

Pre-test, post-test survey assessed perceived barriers in knowledge, attitudes, and behaviours followed by targeted education.

RESULTS

Dependent Sample T-test revealed a statistically significant increase in post-test responses for the subscales knowledge, attitudes, and behaviours with early mobilisation. This over-all increase in post-test results support that understanding barriers can improve patient outcomes.

CONCLUSION

Use of structured surveys to identify barriers for early mobilisation among nursing can assist in providing targeted education that address nurse's perception. The education intervention appeared to have a positive impact on attitudes but it is unknown if the difference was sustained over time or affected participants practice or patient outcomes.

Mobilization of prolonged mechanical ventilation patients: An integrative review

Mobilization of mechanical ventilation patients has broadened to include patients requiring prolonged mechanical ventilation (PMV). A previous systematic review outlined methodological flaws in the literature. The purpose of this integrative review is to evaluate existing publications to determine if mobilization interventions in PMV patients improve physical function, weaning rates, pulmonary mechanics, and hospital outcomes. An electronicsearch covering 2005-2016, included five bibliographic databases: CINHAL, PubMed, PEDro, EMBASE, and Web of Science. Key terms: PMV, mobilization, therapy, and rehabilitation. Eight research studies were identified; 3 RCT's, 3 medical records reviews, 1 prospective cohort, and 1 undefined prospective interventional. Improvements in functional status, shorter duration of mechanical ventilation and hospitalization, decreased mortality, and superior 1-year survival rates in mobilized PMV patients were reported. Persistent methodological limitations impair the ability to determine if these outcomes were the result of improvements in pulmonary mechanics, overall functional status, or a combination of both.

Early Mobilization: Changing the Mindset

BACKGROUND

Staff in the surgical intensive care unit (SICU) had several concerns about mobilizing patients receiving mechanical ventilation.

OBJECTIVE

To assess and improve the mindset of SICU staff toward early mobilization of patients receiving mechanical ventilation before, 6 months after, and 1 year after implementation of early mobilization.

METHODS

The Plan-Do-Study-Act model was used to guide the planning, implementation, evaluation, and interventions to change the mindset and practice of SICU staff in mobilizing patients receiving mechanical ventilation. Interventions to overcome barriers to early mobilization included interdisciplinary collaboration, multimodal education, and operational changes. The mindset of the SICU staff toward early mobilization of patients receiving mechanical ventilation was assessed by using a survey questionnaire distributed 2 weeks before, 6 months after, and 1 year after implementation of early mobilization.

RESULTS

The median score on 6 of 7 survey questions changed significantly from before, to 6 months after, to 1 year after implementation, indicating a change in the mindset of SICU staff toward early mobilization of patients receiving mechanical ventilation. The SICU staff agreed that most patients receiving mechanical ventilation are able to get out of bed safely with coordination among personnel and that early mobilization of intubated patients decreases length of stay and decreases occurrence of ventilator-associated pneumonia, deep vein thrombosis, and skin breakdown.

CONCLUSIONS

SICU interdisciplinary team collaboration, multimodal education, and operational support contribute to removing staff bias against mobilizing patients receiving mechanical ventilation.

Teamwork enables high level of early mobilization in critically ill patients

BACKGROUND

Early mobilization in critically ill patients has been shown to prevent bed-rest-associated morbidity. Reported reasons for not mobilizing patients, thereby excluding or delaying such intervention, are diverse and comprise safety considerations for high-risk critically ill patients with multiple organ support systems. This study sought to demonstrate that early mobilization performed within the first 24 h of ICU admission proves to be feasible and well tolerated in the vast majority of critically ill patients.

RESULTS

General practice data were collected for 171 consecutive admissions to our ICU over a 2-month period according to a local, standardized, early mobilization protocol. The total period covered 731 patient-days, 22 (3 %) of which met our local exclusion criteria for mobilization. Of the remaining 709 patient-days, early mobilization was achieved on 86 % of them, bed-to-chair transfer on 74 %, and at least one physical therapy session on 59 %. Median time interval from ICU admission to the first early mobilization activity was 19 h (IQR = 15-23). In patients on mechanical ventilation (51 %), accounting for 46 % of patient-days, 35 % were administered vasopressors and 11 % continuous renal replacement therapy. Within this group, bed-to-chair transfer was achieved on 68 % of patient-days and at least one early mobilization activity on 80 %. Limiting factors to start early mobilization included restricted staffing capacities, diagnostic or surgical procedures, patients' refusal, as well as severe hemodynamic instability. Hemodynamic parameters were rarely affected during mobilization, causing interruption in only 0.8 % of all activities, primarily due to reversible hypotension or arrhythmia. In general, all activities were well tolerated, while patients were able to self-regulate their active early mobilization. Patients' subjective perception of physical therapy was reported to be enjoyable.

CONCLUSIONS

Mobilization within the first 24 h of ICU admission is achievable in the majority of critical ill patients, in spite of mechanical ventilation, vasopressor administration, or renal replacement therapy.

Existe diferença na mobilização precoce entre os pacientes clínicos e cirúrgicos ventilados mecanicamente em UTI?

RESUMO O objetivo deste estudo foi realizar um levantamento das práticas relacionadas à mobilização dos pacientes internados em uma UTI geral, comparando-os por tipo de intervenção (clínica ou cirúrgica). Trata-se de análise retrospectiva de prontuários de pacientes internados na Unidade de Terapia Intensiva do Hospital Ministro Costa Cavalcanti, na cidade de Foz do Iguaçu (PR), dos quais foram retiradas as seguintes informações: tempo decorrido para sentar fora do leito pela primeira vez, realização de exercícios ativos, desmame da ventilação mecânica, internação em UTI, diagnóstico, gênero e idade. Foram incluídos na pesquisa 105 participantes, sendo 44 (41,9%) pacientes cirúrgicos, 61 (58,1%) do gênero masculino, com média de 61,1 anos (±18,5) para pacientes clínicos e 60,4 (±14,9) para cirúrgicos. Foi observada diferença estatística em relação ao tempo decorrido para sentar fora do leito, transcorrendo 3 ± 4 dias para os clínicos e 3,1 ± 4,5 para os cirúrgicos (p = 0,02). Não foram observadas diferenças entre pacientes clínicos e cirúrgicos na realização dos exercícios ativos.

Mobilization of intensive care patients: a multidisciplinary practical guide for clinicians

Objectives

To describe our experience and the practical tools we have developed to facilitate early mobilization in the intensive care unit (ICU) as a multidisciplinary team.

Background

Despite the evidence supporting early mobilization for improving outcomes for ICU patients, recent international point-prevalence studies reveal that few patients are mobilized in the ICU. Existing guidelines rarely address the practical issues faced by multidisciplinary ICU teams attempting to translate evidence into practice. We present a comprehensive strategy for safe mobilization utilized in our ICU, incorporating the combined skills of medical, nursing, and physiotherapy staff to achieve safe outcomes and establish a culture which prioritizes this intervention.

Methods

A raft of tools and strategies are described to facilitate mobilization in ICU by the multidisciplinary team. Patients without safe unsupported sitting balance and without ≥3/5 (Oxford scale) strength in the lower limbs commence phase 1 mobilization, including training of sitting balance and use of the tilt table. Phase 2 mobilization involves supported or active weight-bearing, incorporating gait harnesses if necessary. The Plan B mnemonic guides safe multidisciplinary mobilization of invasively ventilated patients and emphasizes the importance of a clearly articulated plan in delivering this valuable treatment as a team.

Discussion

These tools have been used over the past 5 years in a tertiary ICU with a very low incidence of adverse outcomes (<2%). The tools and strategies described are useful not only to guide practical implementation of early mobilization, but also in the creation of a unit culture where ICU staff prioritize early mobilization and collaborate daily to provide the best possible care.

Conclusion

These practical tools allow ICU clinicians to safely and effectively implement early mobilization in critically ill patients. A genuinely multidisciplinary approach to safe mobilization in ICU is key to its success in the long term.

Hospital-level factors associated with report of physical activity in patients on mechanical ventilation across Washington State

RATIONALE

Use of physical and/or occupational therapy in the intensive care unit (ICU) is safe, feasible, and demonstrates improvements in functional status with early administration. Access to physical and/or occupational therapy in the ICU is variable, with little known regarding its use in community ICUs.

OBJECTIVES

Determine what proportion of hospitals across Washington State report use of physical activity in mechanically ventilated patients and investigate process of care factors associated with reported activity delivery.

METHODS

Cross-sectional telephone interview survey study of nurse managers in hospitals caring for patients on mechanical ventilation across Washington State in 2013. Survey responses were linked with hospital-level data available in the Washington State Department of Health Comprehensive Hospital Abstract Reporting System database. Chi-square testing was used to explore unadjusted associations between potential process of care factors and report on activity delivery. Two multivariable logistic regression models were developed to explore the association between presence of a mobility protocol and report on delivery of activity.

MEASUREMENTS AND MAIN RESULTS

We identified 54 hospitals caring for patients on mechanical ventilation; 47 participated in the survey (response rate, 85.5%). Nurse managers from 36 (76.6%) hospitals reported use of physical activity in patients on mechanical ventilation, with 22 (46.8%) reporting use of high-level physical activity (transferring to chair, standing or ambulating) and 24 (51.1%) reporting use in high-severity patients (patients requiring mechanical ventilation and/or vasopressors). Presence of a written ICU activity protocol (odds ratio [OR], 5.54; 95% confidence interval [CI], 1.60-19.18; P = 0.006), hospital volume (OR, 5.33; 95% CI, 1.54-18.48; P = 0.008), and academic affiliation (OR, 4.40; 95% CI, 1.23-15.63; P = 0.02) were associated with report of higher level activity. Presence of a written ICU activity protocol (OR, 6.00; 95% CI, 1.69-21.14; P = 0.005) and academic affiliation (OR, 4.50; 95% CI, 1.21-16.46; P = 0.02) were associated with report of delivery of physical activity to high-severity patients.

CONCLUSIONS

Nurse managers at three-fourths (76.6%) of eligible hospitals across Washington State reported use of physical activity in patients on mechanical ventilation. Hospital-level factors including hospital volume, academic affiliation, and presence of a mobility protocol were associated with report of higher level activity and delivery of activity to high-severity patients.

The impact of increased weekend physiotherapy service provision in critical care: a mixed methods study

BACKGROUND

At the hospital studied, weekend physiotherapy (WEPT) is routinely provided and in 2013 WEPT was increased from one (PRE) to three (POST) physiotherapists (PTs) to cover intensive care and ward patients.

AIMS

(1) To evaluate the impact of increased WEPT on patient volumes, treatments provided and conditions treated in critical care and wards; and (2) to understand the PTs' perspectives on the new coverage model.

METHODS

A mixed methods design was utilized. The quantitative component consisted of retrospective document reviews of all weekend patients treated January 1-May 5 (PRE) and May 11-December 31 (POST). The qualitative component used a questionnaire to collect staff feedback. PRE-POST comparisons were conducted using χ(2) or Mann-Whitney U tests.

RESULTS

Significant (p = 0.00) increases POST were seen in number of patients treated, number of mobility treatments provided and number of post-surgical patients seen in both clinical areas. The majority of survey respondents reported feeling adequately trained, but had concerns regarding the impact of increased WEPT on work-life balance.

CONCLUSION

PTs perceived enhanced service was beneficial for continuity of weekday care and improved patient function. Future studies need to focus on measuring the effect of increased weekend provision on outcomes, preventing complications and length of stay.

Factors associated with receipt of physical therapy consultation in patients requiring prolonged mechanical ventilation

BACKGROUND/INTRODUCTION

Mobilization of critically ill patients in the intensive care unit is associated with improved function at hospital discharge and reduced duration of mechanical ventilation (MV). Few studies, however, focus on physical therapy (PT) in patients on prolonged mechanical ventilation (PMV) despite their high risk of immobility and poor outcomes.

OBJECTIVE/AIMS

The objective of this study was to identify factors associated with the receipt of PT consultation among patients requiring PMV. We hypothesized that key factors including age, severity of illness, and presence of a tracheostomy are associated with PT consultation.

METHODS

This was a retrospective cohort study of adults on MV for 14 days or longer for acute respiratory failure at an academic medical center. Primary outcome was PT consultation by day 14 of MV. We examined associations between the following key predictors chosen a priori and PT consultation: age, tracheostomy, illness severity, oxygenation status, shock, hemodialysis, and medical service using multivariable logistic regression. Wilcoxon rank sum testing was used to test relationship between sedation and PT.

RESULTS

We identified 175 patients requiring PMV at our institution. Most were middle-aged (mean, 49.7 [SD, 18.5] years old) men (65%) with high illness severity (mean Acute Physiology and Chronic Health Evaluation III score, 86 [SD, 40]). Less than half of all patients requiring PMV (78/175, 45%) received PT consultation in the intensive care unit, and most failed to progress with therapy beyond range-of-motion exercises (85%). Failure to progress was associated with level of sedation (med Ramsay score 4.5 [interquartile range, 3-6] vs 3.5 [interquartile range, 3-5]; P = .01). Presence of a tracheostomy and prehospital nonambulatory status were associated with receipt of PT by day 14 of MV (odds ratio, 6.94 and 3.42, respectively; P ≤ .05).

CONCLUSIONS

In our study, we found that PT for PMV patients occurs infrequently and is generally of low intensity. Level of sedation, presence of a tracheostomy, and prehospital nonambulatory status were associated with receipt of PT consultation by day 14 of MV.

Effect of Early Rehabilitation during Intensive Care Unit Stay on Functional Status: Systematic Review and Meta-Analysis

Background and Aim

Critically ill survivors may have functional impairments even five years after hospital discharge. To date there are four systematic reviews suggesting a beneficial impact for mobilisation in mechanically ventilated and intensive care unit (ICU) patients, however there is limited information about the influence of timing, frequency and duration of sessions. Earlier mobilisation during ICU stay may lead to greater benefits. This study aims to determine the effect of early rehabilitation for functional status in ICU/high-dependency unit (HDU) patients.

Design

Systematic review and meta-analysis. MEDLINE, EMBASE, CINALH, PEDro, Cochrane Library, AMED, ISI web of science, Scielo, LILACS and several clinical trial registries were searched for randomised and non-randomised clinical trials of rehabilitation compared to usual care in adult patients admitted to an ICU/HDU. Results were screened by two independent reviewers. Primary outcome was functional status. Secondary outcomes were walking ability, muscle strength, quality of life, and healthcare utilisation. Data extraction and methodological quality assessment using the PEDro scale was performed by primary reviewer and checked by two other reviewers. The authors of relevant studies were contacted to obtain missing data.

Results

5733 records were screened. Seven articles were included in the narrative synthesis and six in the meta-analysis. Early rehabilitation had no significant effect on functional status, muscle strength, quality of life, or healthcare utilisation. However, early rehabilitation led to significantly more patients walking without assistance at hospital discharge (risk ratio 1.42; 95% CI 1.17-1.72). There was a non-significant effect favouring intervention for walking distance and incidence of ICU-acquired weakness.

Conclusions

Early rehabilitation during ICU stay was not associated with improvements in functional status, muscle strength, quality of life or healthcare utilisation outcomes, although it seems to improve walking ability compared to usual care. Results from ongoing studies may provide more data on the potential benefits of early rehabilitation in critically ill patients.

Evaluation of a volume targeted NIV device: bench evaluation of the Breathe Technologies non-invasive open ventilation system (NIOV™)

PURPOSE

Early ambulation in the ventilated patient is gaining wider acceptance. We evaluated a new portable (1 lb), gas powered, volume ventilator designed for NIV via a proprietary nasal pillows interface (Breathe Technologies, CA).

METHODS

We developed a model to approximate a patient's nose, upper airway and trachea. The model was connected to a test lung (ASL5000, Ingmar Medical, Pittsburgh, PA) via 22 mm ID corrugated tubing. The nasal pillows were adjusted in the nares using a lanyard. The ASL was set to represent a normal patient, a COPD patient, and a patient with interstitial lung disease (ILD). The Breathe ventilator was set at delivered volumes of 100 mL, 150 mL, 200 mL, and 250 mL. Baseline data was also collected without the appliance connected. Delivered volume, inspired oxygen concentration (FIO2), inspiratory flow (V), and peak inspiratory pressure (PIP) were recorded for each breath. Data for 10 breaths were used to calculate the mean at each condition (± SD).

RESULTS

The Breathe volume ventilator delivered an augmented simulated patient tidal volume of 362 to 823 mL, augmenting the simulated patient's spontaneous volume by up to 459 mL, depending on ventilator settings and ASL lung conditions. Delivered FIO2 ranged from 0.36 to 0.45 and was also dependent on ventilator settings and ASL lung conditions.

CONCLUSIONS

The PIP, delivered tidal volumes, and measured FIO2 support the hypothesis that this system can augment minute ventilation and supply supplemental oxygen in spontaneously breathing patients with a simple, non-invasive interface.

Rehabilitation during mechanical ventilation: Review of the recent literature

Mechanically ventilated patients are at increased risk of developing physical and psychological complications that are associated with prolonged weaning from mechanical ventilation, increased morbidity and mortality. These complications include intensive care unit acquired weakness, delirium and a loss of physical function that may persist well beyond ICU and hospital discharge. Factors such as the requirement for intubation and mechanical ventilation, sedation, systemic inflammation and immobility are associated with the development of these physical and psychological complications. Implementation of rehabilitation in mechanically ventilated patients has been demonstrated to be both safe and feasible and provide benefits in terms of physical and psychological function and assist with weaning from mechanical ventilation. The recent relevant literature on the role of rehabilitation interventions in the mechanically ventilated patient will be discussed.

Mechanical ventilation and mobilization: comparison between genders

[Purpose] To investigate the impact of gender on mobilization and mechanical ventilation in hospitalized patients in an intensive care unit. [Subjects and Methods] A retrospective cross-sectional study was conducted of the medical records of 105 patients admitted to a general intensive care unit. The length of mechanical ventilation, length of intensive care unit stay, weaning, time to sitting out of bed, time to performing active exercises, and withdrawal of sedation exercises were evaluated in addition to the characteristics of individuals, reasons for admission and risk scores. [Results] Women had significantly lower values APACHE II scores, duration of mechanical ventilation, time to withdrawal of sedation and time to onset of active exercises. [Conclusion] Women have a better functional response when admitted to the intensive care unit, spending less time ventilated and performing active exercises earlier.

Multidisciplinary rehabilitation in ventilator-dependent patients: Call for action in specialized inpatient facilities

The numbers of patients needing prolonged mechanical ventilation are growing. The rehabilitation programs to be implemented in specialized inpatient facilities are ill defined. There is a clear need to establish guidelines to define the optimal rehabilitation program in this setting. In this article we review the current evidence and propose some guidance.

Impact of using physiotherapy self-referral in the medical-surgical neurological intensive care unit

PURPOSE

To describe physiotherapy (PT) referral practice in a medical-surgical neurological intensive care unit (MSNICU) of a large quaternary teaching hospital before and after the implementation of PT self-referral.

METHODS

Charts were reviewed for MSNICU patients who received PT pre-implementation (Pre; n=90) and post-implementation (Post; n=100) to collect data on timeliness, number of referrals, and MSNICU length of stay (LOS); t-tests were conducted to determine group differences.

RESULTS

The mean age of MSNICU patients referred to PT was 60.6 (SD=18.6) years; 59.5% were male. PT treatment consisted of cardiorespiratory (39% Pre, 51.1% Post), mobility (22% Pre, 28.8% Post), and combined (39% Pre, 20% Post) interventions. Overall, the number of days between MSNICU admission and PT initiation and MSNICU LOS did not differ significantly from Pre to Post. However, for patients (n=50) receiving early (within 7 days of MSNICU admission) PT self-referral Post versus patients receiving physician referral only Pre (n=83), there was a significant decrease (p=0.01) in time to PT initiation of 1.4 days (3.2 Pre, 1.8 Post).

CONCLUSIONS

PT self-referral increased both the number of patients receiving more timely access to PT and the provision of treatment of a deferred group of patients previously not referred. Future studies need to evaluate the impact of referral methods across a variety of clinical populations.

ABCDEs of ICU: Early mobility

The intensive care unit (ICU) provides a critical level of care to medically unstable patients. Patients need intensive monitoring and treatment that may require emergency interventions. The vulnerability and complexity of the ICU unintentionally creates an environment that limits and poorly defines the intervention of early mobility in the unstable critically ill patients. The short- and long-term effects of immobility and bed rest increase acute complications, the length of stay in the ICU and hospital, and mortality and morbidity rates. According to current research, instituting early mobility programs can improve patient outcomes. Current research has demonstrated the safety and feasibility of the initiation of early mobility programs in the critically ill. The benefits to patients enhance recovery of functional exercise capacity, weaning outcomes, self-perceived functional status, and muscle force and strength. Consequently, patient's length of stay in the ICU and in hospital decreases and improves health outcomes. The scope of practice for nurses and other health care providers should guide by evidenced-based research to reduce complications and enhance patient outcomes. Further research is necessary to establish and institute policies and protocols on early mobility programs in the ICU to direct patient care. The role of the clinical nurse specialist can contribute by conducting evidence-based research, educating health care providers and patients, and implementing protocols. The hope is to change the culture of the ICU for the better.

Practice patterns of canadian physiotherapists mobilizing patients with external ventricular drains

PURPOSE

To describe current mobilization practices of Canadian physiotherapists when treating patients with external ventricular drains (EVDs).

METHODS

A quantitative, descriptive, cross-sectional study design using an online questionnaire via SurveyMonkey. An email invitation and questionnaire link was distributed in March 2010 to physiotherapists currently working with this patient population in Neurosurgical Centres across Canada.

RESULTS

Respondents were 25 physiotherapists (21 full-time, 2 part-time, and 2 who did not disclose work status) working in 5 different provinces who treated ≥1 patient/month with an EVD (n=9). Slightly more than half of respondents had ≤10 years' clinical physiotherapy experience (n=14); the remainder had >10 years' experience (n=11). The majority of respondents indicated that they felt comfortable mobilizing patients with EVDs (n =19) and that it was safe to do so (n=20). Clinical experience (n=23) and safety concerns (n=25) were most commonly cited as guiding practice. More experienced physiotherapists were more likely to use out-of-bed mobilization practices. Regardless of experience, the majority of physiotherapists (20/25) ranked intracranial pressure (ICP) as the most important factor and saturation of oxygen (Spo2) as the least important factor to consider before mobilization.

CONCLUSIONS

Canadian physiotherapists are mobilizing patients with EVDs, and the intensity level of their mobilization practices appears to be related to their experience level. Data from the current study may be used in developing future best-practice guidelines for the mobilization of patients with EVDs.

A multidisciplinary approach to early mobilization of patients with burns

Mobilizing patients with burns can be challenging due to their unique characteristics. Many times, common practice is to elevate and immobilize the burned extremity after debridement and grafting. On the contrary, mobility is imperative for patients with burns, as patients can lose function and flexibility quickly. The objective of this article was to review the current evidence related to early ambulation in patients with burns as well as barriers to mobilization within a burn intensive care unit. It also provides a demonstration of how a nurse at the bedside in collaboration with a physical therapist can implement these interventions and assist with early ambulation in patients with burns.

[Evolution in muscle strength in critical patients with invasive mechanical ventilation]

OBJECTIVE

To assess the evolution of muscle strength in critically ill patients with mechanical ventilation (MV) from withdrawal of sedatives to hospital discharge.

MATERIAL AND METHOD

A cohort study was conducted in two intensive care units in the Hospital Universitari de Bellvitge from November 2011 to March 2012.

INCLUSION CRITERIA

Consecutive patients with MV > 72h. Dependent outcome: Muscle strength measured with the Medical Research Council (MRC) scale beginning on the first day the patient was able to answer 3 out of 5 simple orders (day 1), every week, at ICU discharge and at hospital discharge or at day 60 Independent outcomes: factors associated with muscle strength loss, ventilator-free days, ICU length of stay and hospital length of stay. The patients were distributed into two groups (MRC< 48, MRC ≥ 48) after the first measurement.

RESULTS

Thirty-four patients were assessed. Independent outcomes associated with muscle strength weakness were: days with cardiovascular SOFA >2 (P<.001) and days with costicosteroids (P<.001). Initial MRC in MRC<48 group was 38 (27-43), and 52 (50-54) in MRC ≥ 48. The largest muscle strength gain was obtained the first week (31% versus 52%). A MRC < 48 value was associated with more MV days (P<.007) and a longer ICU stay. (P<.003).

CONCLUSION

The greatest muscle strength gain after withdrawing of the sedatives was achieved in the first week. Muscle strength loss was associated with a cardiovascular SOFA > 2 and costicosteroids. Patients with a MRC < 48 required more days with MV and a longer ICU stay.

Occupational therapy for patients with acute lung injury: factors associated with time to first intervention in the intensive care unit

OBJECTIVE

Very early occupational therapy intervention in the intensive care unit (ICU) improves patients' physical recovery. We evaluated the association of patient, ICU, and hospital factors with time to first occupational therapy intervention in ICU patients with acute lung injury (ALI).

METHOD

We conducted a prospective cohort study of 514 consecutive patients with ALI from 11 ICUs in three hospitals in Baltimore, MD.

RESULTS

Only 30% of patients ever received occupational therapy during their ICU stay. Worse organ failure, continuous hemodialysis, and uninterrupted continuous infusion of sedation were independently associated with delayed occupational therapy initiation, and hospital study site and admission to a trauma ICU were independently associated with earlier occupational therapy.

CONCLUSION

Severity of illness and ICU practices for sedation administration were associated with delayed occupational therapy. Both hospital study site and type of ICU were independently associated with timing of occupational therapy, indicating modifiable environmental factors for promoting early occupational therapy in the ICU.

Life after critical illness: an overview

AIMS AND OBJECTIVES

To illustrate the potential physical and psychological problems faced by patients after an episode of critical illness, highlight some of the interventions that have been tested and identify areas for future research.

BACKGROUND

Recovery from critical illness is an international problem and as an issue is likely to increase. For some, recovery from critical illness is prolonged, subject to physical and psychological problems that may negatively impact upon health-related quality of life.

METHODS

The literature accessed for this review includes the work of a number of key researchers in the field of critical care research. These were identified from a number of sources include (1) personal knowledge of the research field accumulated over the last decade and (2) using the search engine 'The Knowledge Network Scotland'.

RESULTS

Fatigue and weakness are significant problems for critical care survivors and are common in patients who have been in ICU for more than one week. Psychological problems include anxiety, depression, post-traumatic stress, delirium and cognitive impairment. Prevalence of these problems is difficult to establish for a number of methodological reasons that include the use of self-report questionnaires, the number of different questionnaires used and the variation in administration and timing. Certain subgroups of ICU survivors especially those at the more severe end of the illness severity spectrum are more at risk and this has been demonstrated for both physical and psychological problems. Findings from international studies of a range of potential interventions are presented. However, establishing effectiveness for most of these still has to be empirically demonstrated.

CONCLUSION

What seems clear is the need for a co-ordinated, multidisciplinary, designated recovery and rehabilitation pathway that begins as soon as the patient is admitted into an intensive care unit.

Factors associated with timing of initiation of physical therapy in patients with acute lung injury

OBJECTIVES

Early initiation of physical therapy (PT) in mechanically ventilated patients is associated with improved outcomes. However, PT is frequently delayed until after extubation or discharge from the intensive care unit (ICU). We evaluated factors associated with the timing of initiation of PT in patients with acute lung injury (ALI) admitted to ICUs without an emphasis on early rehabilitation.

DESIGN

A secondary analysis of a prospective cohort study was conducted.

SETTINGS

The study was conducted in 11 ICUs in 3 teaching hospitals.

PATIENTS

A total of 503 patients with ALI were included in the study.

INTERVENTIONS

No interventions were used in this study.

MEASUREMENTS AND MAIN RESULTS

Thirty-four percent of patients ever received PT. In multivariable analysis, factors associated with later PT were a higher Sequential Organ Failure Assessment score (hazard ratio, 0.89; 95% confidence interval, 0.85-0.93), higher fraction of inspired oxygen (0.97, 0.96-0.98), mechanical ventilation (0.31, 0.16-0.59), coma (0.32, 0.20-0.51), delirium (0.72, 0.50-1.03), and continuous sedation (with daily sedation interruption: 0.49, 0.30-0.81; without daily sedation interruption: 0.59, 0.39-0.89). Factors associated with earlier PT were an admitting diagnosis of trauma (3.31, 1.74-6.31) and hospital study site (2.84, 1.89-4.26).

CONCLUSIONS

In 11 ICUs without emphasis on early rehabilitation, patients with ALI frequently received no PT. Severity of illness, mental status, sedation practices, and hospital site were significant barriers to initiating PT. Understanding these barriers may be important when introducing early ICU physical rehabilitation.

The study of activity in older ICU patients: an integrative review

The purpose of this study was to review relevant literature on activity of older critically ill patients, including activity interventions conducted in this population, with a focus on activity measurement and technology. Literature published between 1996 and 2012 was reviewed using keywords older adults, inactivity, mobility, progressive mobility, rehabilitation, ambulation, early mobilization, ICU (intensive care unit), and accelerometry using CINAHL, MEDLINE, and the Cochrane Database of Systematic Reviews. Previous relevant research is discussed and includes intervention and nonintervention studies. Although studies have demonstrated the benefits of early mobilization in the ICU setting, this research has not focused on the high-risk older adult ICU population, nor has it addressed how best to quantify these clinical activities. Current technologies, such as accelerometry, may assist in measuring patient activity and in mobilizing high-risk patients during acute, critical illness.

Effectiveness of an early mobilization protocol in a trauma and burns intensive care unit: a retrospective cohort study

BACKGROUND

Bed rest and immobility in patients on mechanical ventilation or in an intensive care unit (ICU) have detrimental effects. Studies in medical ICUs show that early mobilization is safe, does not increase costs, and can be associated with decreased ICU and hospital lengths of stay (LOS).

OBJECTIVE

The purpose of this study was to assess the effects of an early mobilization protocol on complication rates, ventilator days, and ICU and hospital LOS for patients admitted to a trauma and burn ICU (TBICU).

DESIGN

This was a retrospective cohort study of an interdisciplinary quality-improvement program.

METHODS

Pre- and post-early mobility program patient data from the trauma registry for 2,176 patients admitted to the TBICU between May 2008 and April 2010 were compared.

RESULTS

No adverse events were reported related to the early mobility program. After adjusting for age and injury severity, there was a decrease in airway, pulmonary, and vascular complications (including pneumonia and deep vein thrombosis) post-early mobility program. Ventilator days and TBICU and hospital lengths of stay were not significantly decreased.

LIMITATIONS

Using a historical control group, there was no way to account for other changes in patient care that may have occurred between the 2 periods that could have affected patient outcomes. The dose of physical activity both before and after the early mobility program were not specifically assessed.

CONCLUSIONS

Early mobilization of patients in a TBICU was safe and effective. Medical, nursing, and physical therapy staff, as well as hospital administrators, have embraced the new culture of early mobilization in the ICU.

Innovative mobility strategies for the patient with intensive care unit-acquired weakness: a case report

BACKGROUND AND PURPOSE

Although the benefits of early mobilization in the intensive care unit (ICU) have been well documented in recent years, the decision-making process and customization of treatment strategies for patients with ICU-acquired weakness have not been well defined in the literature. This case report will describe a patient with ICU-acquired weakness in the long-term acute care hospital (LTACH) setting and mobilization strategies that include novel devices for therapeutic exercise and gait training.

CASE DESCRIPTION

A 73-year-old, active woman underwent a routine cardioversion for atrial fibrillation but developed multiple complications, including sepsis and respiratory failure. The patient spent 3 weeks of limited activity in the ICU and was transferred to our LTACH for continued medical intervention and rehabilitation. A 4-phase graded mobilization program was initiated in the LTACH ICU. Within that program, the physical therapy interventions included partial weight-bearing antigravity strength training with a mobile leg press and gait training with a hydraulic-assist platform walker.

OUTCOME

Before interventions, the patient had severe weakness (Medical Research Council [MRC] sum score of 18/60) and displayed complete dependence for all functioning. She progressed to being able to ambulate 150 ft (1 ft=0.3048 m) using a rolling walker with accompanying strength increases to an MRC sum score of 52/60.

DISCUSSION

This case report describes novel mobility strategies for managing a patient with ICU-acquired weakness. The application of a graded mobilization program using a mobile leg press and a hydraulic-assist platform walker was safe and feasible, and appeared to expedite the patient's recovery process while decreasing the amount of manual lifting for the therapists.

What follows survival of critical illness? Physical therapists' management of patients with post-intensive care syndrome

Historically, the management of patients in the intensive care unit (ICU) has involved immobilization and sedation, with care focused on physiological impairments and survival. Because more ICU patients are now surviving their hospital stay, it is imperative that their ICU care be managed with the goal of long-term health, wellness, and functioning. The evidence confirms that mobilization and exercise are feasible in the ICU and demonstrates that the benefits of early mobilization include reduced length of stay in the ICU and hospital. In 2010, the Society of Critical Care Medicine (SCCM) invited key stakeholder groups, including the American Physical Therapy Association (APTA), to identify strategies to improve long-term consequences following ICU discharge, including early mobilization in the ICU and integration of the physical therapist as a member of the ICU team. This model appears to be successful in some institutions, but there is variation among institutions. The SCCM Task Force developed major areas of focus that require multidisciplinary action to improve long-term outcomes after discharge from an ICU. This article describes physical therapist practice in the management of ICU survivors, the importance of long-term follow-up after ICU discharge, and how APTA is taking steps to address the major areas of focus identified by the SCCM Task Force to improve long-term outcomes after ICU discharge.

Neuromuscular electrical stimulation for intensive care unit-acquired weakness: protocol and methodological implications for a randomized, sham-controlled, phase II trial

BACKGROUND

As the population ages and critical care advances, a growing number of survivors of critical illness will be at risk for intensive care unit (ICU)-acquired weakness. Bed rest, which is common in the ICU, causes adverse effects, including muscle weakness. Consequently, patients need ICU-based interventions focused on the muscular system. Although emerging evidence supports the benefits of early rehabilitation during mechanical ventilation, additional therapies may be beneficial. Neuromuscular electrical stimulation (NMES), which can provide some muscular activity even very early during critical illness, is a promising modality for patients in the ICU.

OBJECTIVE

The objectives of this article are to discuss the implications of bed rest for patients with critical illness, summarize recent studies of early rehabilitation and NMES in the ICU, and describe a protocol for a randomized, phase II pilot study of NMES in patients receiving mechanical ventilation.

DESIGN

The study was a randomized, sham-controlled, concealed, phase II pilot study with caregivers and outcome assessors blinded to the treatment allocation.

SETTING

The study setting will be a medical ICU.

PARTICIPANTS

The study participants will be patients who are receiving mechanical ventilation for 1 day or more, who are expected to stay in the ICU for an additional 2 days or more, and who meet no exclusion criteria.

INTERVENTION

The intervention will be NMES (versus a sham [control] intervention) applied to the quadriceps, tibialis anterior, and gastrocnemius muscles for 60 minutes per day.

MEASUREMENTS

Lower-extremity muscle strength at hospital discharge will be the primary outcome measure.

LIMITATIONS

Muscle strength is a surrogate measure, not a patient-centered outcome. The assessments will not include laboratory, genetic, or histological measures aimed at a mechanistic understanding of NMES. The optimal duration or dose of NMES is unclear.

CONCLUSIONS

If NMES is beneficial, the results of the study will help advance research aimed at reducing the burden of muscular weakness and physical disability in survivors of critical illness.

Critical care nurses' role in implementing the "ABCDE bundle" into practice

Imagine working in an environment where all patients undergoing mechanical ventilation are alert, calm, and delirium free. Envision practicing in an environment where nonvocal patients can effectively express their need for better pain control, repositioning, or emotional reassurance. Picture an intensive care unit where a nurse-led, interprofessional team practices evidence-based, patient-centered care focused on preserving and/or restoring their clients' physical, functional, and neurocognitive abilities. A recently proposed bundle of practices for the intensive care unit could advance the current practice environment toward this idealized environment. The Awakening and Breathing Coordination, Delirium Monitoring and Management, and Early Mobility (ABCDE) bundle incorporates the best available evidence related to delirium, immobility, sedation/analgesia, and ventilator management in the intensive care unit for adoption into everyday clinical practice.

Early mobilization in the management of critical illness

Patients undergoing critical illness and mechanical ventilation are at risk of developing neuromuscular and neurocognitive impairments that can impact physical function and quality of life. Mobilizing patients early in the course of critical illness may improve outcomes. Recent literature on early mobilization is reviewed, suggestions for implementation are discussed, and areas for future research are identified.